NEW DELHI: Saturday saw Poland and Italy secure their spots in the Billie Jean King Cup semifinals after thrilling victories over the Czech Republic and Japan, respectively.
Poland completed a 2-1 comeback against the Czech Republic, with World No. 2 Iga Swiatek playing a pivotal role. After Marie Bouzkova gave the Czechs the initial lead by defeating Magdalena Frech, Swiatek leveled the tie by overcoming Linda Noskova.
Swiatek then partnered with Katarzyna Kawa to win the deciding doubles match against Marie Bouzkova and Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-4. This marks Poland's first-ever appearance in the Billie Jean King Cup semifinals.
Italy, the 2023 runners-up, edged out Japan 2-1 in another close encounter. Ena Shibahara initially put Japan ahead with a victory over Elisabetta Cocciaretto. However, Jasmine Paolini, a finalist in both the French Open and Wimbledon this year, leveled the tie for Italy by defeating Moyuka Uchijima. Paolini then teamed up with Sara Errani to secure the win for Italy in the doubles match against Shuko Aoyama and Eri Hozumi.
Speaking about her performance, Paolini said: "(It) wasn't easy for me because you enter (trailing) 0-1. But I'm happy with singles and of course with doubles."
Italy will face Poland in the semifinals on Monday. The remaining quarterfinal matches, featuring Canada vs. Britain and Australia vs. Slovakia, are scheduled for Sunday.
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